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The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo welcomed a new animal last month, and he’s already growing fast.
A male caribou calf was born at the Forestry Farm on June 25 to Mira, one of the zoo’s resident caribou. According to the City of Saskatoon, the newborn weighed 9.4 kilograms at birth, but in less than a month he has grown to 12.8 kilos.
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The young reindeer has been named Lyall Petrie in honour of Dr. Lyall Petrie, a professor emeritus in large-animal medicine at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine who passed away in May.
“Mom and baby are currently receiving care behind the scenes while the Zoo’s Animal Care Specialists closely monitor their progress and support this important early bonding period,” the city said in a statement. “The pair are expected to begin exploring their habitat this week.”
While the calf may not always be visible to zoo visitors, the city said guests will gradually see the young animal becoming more active, though he’ll likely stick close to his mother as he begins to explore his habitat.
“Our Animal Care Specialists are providing Mira and her calf with the time, space and support they need during these important early days,” Jeff Mitchell, the Forestry Farm’s zoo manager, said in a statement.
“It is especially meaningful to name this calf Lyall Petrie in honour of Dr. Petrie, whose guidance, generosity and dedication left a lasting mark on so many in the veterinary community.”
The city said the birth of the caribou calf will help raise awareness about the importance of protecting the vulnerable species, adding that the zoo is a supporter of the Caribou Conservation Alliance.
“Listed as Vulnerable, caribou face risks including habitat loss, human development and climate change,” the city explained.
“They are well adapted to cold climates, with a dense undercoat and longer hollow guard hairs for warmth. Their broad hooves help them move across snow and soft ground, and both males and females grow antlers.”
